Characterization of the lower limb dynamic balance and ankle dorsiflexion in young male futsal players: implications for performance and injury prevention

Dynamic balance and ankle dorsiflexion are associated with performance and injury risk in young athletes. The aim of this study was to characterize lower limb dynamic balance and ankle dorsiflexion in young futsal players and to understand their relationships. Eighteen young male futsal players (with 15.2 ± 1.2 years of age and with a right lower limb dominance) were evaluated for dynamic balance of both lower limbs using the Y-balance test (LQYBT). Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DROM) was measured during the weight-bearing lunge test. There were no significant differences in dynamic balance variables between the two sides (p > 0.05). However, the composite scores (CS) of both lower limbs showed a risk of injury (CS was less than 89%). Ankle dorsiflexion of the right lower limb was significantly greater than that of the left lower limb (mean difference = 1.00, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = −0.00 to 2.00, t = 2.11, p = 0.050, d = 0.50). Significant correlations and relationships between ankle dorsiflexion and dynamic balance were found only on the right side. The highest correlation (rs = 0.598; p = 0.009) and the highest relationship (R2 = 0.50; p = 0.001) were observed with the relative anterior reach. The present results indicate that young futsal players have poor dynamic balance scores. Ankle dorsiflexion was only significantly related to dynamic balance on the right side. Further research is needed to better understand these relationships in youth futsal.

Balance; Symmetry; Youth; Futsal; Range of motion; Injury

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